State DOJ: Busts Reveal Unprecedented Cartel Presence in Oregon

Klamath Falls, Oregon–Law enforcement officials thwarted a Mexican cartel-linked narcotics operation with a number of raids in the early morning hours of May 16, 2013. Officers made at least 38 arrests, then seized approximately four pounds of methamphetamine, over fifty firearms, and an undetermined amount of cash.

In an exclusive interview with Breitbart News, the Oregon Department of Justice Communications Director, Jeff Manning, confirmed these details and added that the operation involved raids of at least 23 homes and businesses. Manning said law enforcement is looking for at least ten other individuals in connection with these groups.

“We cannot comment at this time on whether or not all of those arrested were US citizens or here illegally,” said Manning. “There is a clear connection to Mexican cartels and this narcotics ring was an active dealing operation on a scale we have not seen previously in Oregon.”

“This investigation began last October,” said Manning.

The Oregonian‘s Les Zaitz, who first covered the arrests, has theorized that this long-term investigation started following the discovery of two corpses buried in in Klamath County, OR. The corpses were discovered during the same month this investigation began. Oregon DOJ’s Manning said, “That reporter came up with that on his own. We did not confirm any connection.” However, Manning also said, “We do not deny any connection between the two matters.”

If the Oregonian‘s theory is correct, authorities are finding Mexican cartel victims buried beneath US soil, deep into the continental U.S.

Manning listed the agencies involved as: The Oregon Department of Justice, the US Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, Homeland Security, the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office, the Klamath Falls Police Department, and Oregon State Police. He said he did not believe the Federal Bureau of Investigation played a role in this case.

“You can see life’s hard knocks on their faces. It’s really sad,” Manning said regarding many of the 38 people authorities arrested.